A STAR-studded Barbarians team took out the Raiwaqa Basketball revival tournament in style, edging a young Freshman side 31-29 in the final at Ed's Court.

The Post Fiji-sponsored tournament, which started on Friday and ended yesterday, was part of efforts to breathe life into the sport in Raiwaqa and in particular, the greater Suva area.

Barbarians, with a host of former and current national reps, were led by Lai Puamau, Waisea Dau and Adrian Bossley.

Freshman, made up of players in the Fiji development squad, was keenly led by Oceania All Stars representative Jese Sikivou.

In the semi-finals, Barbarians beat the Peni Sokosoko's Warriors 25-23 while Freshman defeated home side1 Bryceland 30-18.

Out of the 16 competing teams, 10 were from outside Raiwaqa. These included Idaman from Namadi, Freshman from Samabula, Hands from Lami, Knights, the National Development team, Barbarians, Macpacers, Roots and a new team G-Unit.

Teams within Raiwaqa are Bryceland, Warriors, Knicks, Spowart, Jazz and Bulldogs.

Tournament official Max Tagiveitaua said overall, the tournament was a "great success".

"Everyone pitched in to help including some patrons of Raiwaqa basketball who were there to support the initiative," Tagiveitaua said. "The Raiwaqa Basketball Play-ers Association was instrumental in officiating and the ex-Fiji reps put in some good work.

"The main aim was to try and revive the sport in the area and there was a lot of support, especially from spectators.

"Despite the adverse weather conditions, we managed to pull it off.

"We now hope to continue with the work that has been laid with our league matches which begin next week (this week)."

FIJI TIMES By Rodney Duthie